Volunteer Louisiana

Jeff Tobler recently visited Louisiana as a "Voluntourist". Here is his account of his experience:

"Having been to Louisiana several times in the past from my home in Los Angeles, I wanted my most recent trip to offer a different experience.  For some time, I’d been wanting to get involved with a Habitat for Humanity-type project, so when I heard my best friend was going to be volunteering with the organization, The St. Bernard Project, I decided this would be the perfect time to get involved. We made the early morning trek from Baton Rouge, catching the Southern Louisiana scenery along the way. Upon our arrival in St. Bernard Parish and looking at my surroundings, I was even more eager to get my hands dirty so that I could, in a small way, help a struggling family.  We were assigned to help rebuild the interior of a home destroyed by Hurrican Katrina and spent the day measuring, cutting and installing dry wall, as well as, mudding and taping walls. During our brief lunch break we drove up the street to a local eatery known for their potato dishes and enjoyed the good food – food that certainly can't be found in Los Angeles!  Working with other volunteers from around the country was a great experience and I plan to volunteer again when I'm back in Lousiana.  Until that time comes, I'm planning to organize a Beach Challenge event in L.A. for my friends and have proceeds benefit the St. Bernard Project."